San Diego, California News Station - KFMB Channel 8 - cbs8.comLargest Cat Show on the West Coast kicks off in Del Mar

Largest Cat Show on the West Coast kicks off in Del Mar

SAN DIEGO (CNS) - The annual San Diego Cat Show, touted as the largest of its kind on the West Coast, starts its two-day run Saturday at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

The show, hosted by San Diego Cat Fanciers, will feature more than 400 cats on display and in competition for prizes in several categories, such as a beauty contest and a feline agility competition, according to event organizers.

National and international judges from the Cat Fanciers Association will pick the winning kitties in eight different rings, organizers said.

Cat experts will be on hand to provide grooming tips for both show cats and household pets and will also help visitors understand and appreciate their feline friends, officials said.

Educational seminars will be presented with topics such as domestic cat origins and the history of breeds, how to choose a pet cat and responsible cat ownership, which will feature shelter and rescue cats available for adoption.

The show will also have a swap meet where feline fans can purchase cat-related merchandise, ranging from t-shirts, to personalized food and water bowls, to hand-crafted jewelry. Also available for purchase will be custom cat poles, toys and a variety of health and beauty care products, officials said.

Admission is $9 for adults and $7 for children older than 6, seniors and military personnel. Tickets are available online or at the door, where only cash only is accepted.

Show hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.